Martin Allen says the emphasis is on helping Barnet’s players after Saturday’s 4-1 defeat to Exeter City, rather than tearing into them.

The Bees returned to The Hive on Monday and trained on Tuesday ahead of Saturday’s EFL League Two trip to Wycombe Wanderers.

After an encouraging start to the new campaign Barnet find themselves second bottom. But Allen insists there is no use in dwelling on the disappointment of the weekend.

“As much as you want to tear into them and rip into them, at the moment they need help, support and looking after,” he explained. 

“We’ve got the re-build that confidence on the training ground and we’ve been here before.

“We had that game early on against Halifax where we got absolutely smashed and the game against Kidderminster in the Championship year. I made a change at half time and we drew 3-3 after being 3-0 up – that was another massive blow. 

“And, of course, last year when we played Newport County in the FA Cup was a particularly disappointing performance on a horrible day – especially in such a special competition. 

“These things are part of the job and it’s how you deal with them, cope with and manage through these times that makes you what you are.”

You can watch Martin’s full interview below in which he gives an injury update, talks about the loan window and reflects on 125 games in charge of the Bees in his fourth spell: